MCA field guide
What makes a complete MCA submission
A practical packaging standard that improves routing, underwriting speed, and credibility.
Quick answer
A complete submission contains a current application, complete requested financial documents, verified ownership and entity information, all existing positions, and a factual routing note.
Core business and ownership information
Use a current signed application, legal and DBA names, business address, tax ID where lawfully requested, ownership percentages, contact information, requested amount, use of funds, and clear consent for any authorized pulls.
Complete financial evidence
Provide every page of the requested bank-statement period, current month-to-date activity when required, voided check or bank letter, processing statements for split products, and existing position details. Never send merchant PII to a party until its identity and need are confirmed.
A routing note that explains the file
Summarize revenue, time in business, credit context, industry, state, positions, requested structure, strengths, and known exceptions. A short factual note is more useful than unsupported superlatives.
Practical checklist
- Confirm legal name, DBA, address, ownership, and contact details.
- Include every page of each requested statement.
- Add month-to-date activity when required.
- Document current positions, balances, and payments.
- Resolve inconsistent dates, amounts, and names.
- Send merchant PII only through a verified and authorized route.
Common questions
Should the same package go to every lender?
No. Start with a complete core file, then follow each lender’s current document and consent requirements.
What belongs in the routing note?
Requested structure, revenue, time in business, industry, state, positions, strengths, and known exceptions.
Does more documentation always help?
Only when relevant and sent securely. Avoid unnecessary PII and confirm the recipient.
Primary sources and context
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau — Small business lending rule FAQsOfficial federal context for merchant cash advances and sales-based financing.
- California DFPI — Commercial financing disclosuresOfficial disclosure framework covering amount, cost, term, payments, and prepayment policy.
Methodology and corrections
This guide distinguishes calculations, common industry practice, and lender-specific policy. Criteria should be confirmed from the dated source on each lender profile. Report an error through the correction policy.